The Washington Uniform Common Interest Homeownership Act (WUCIOA) now applies to all communities, regardless of their formation dates. The act causes changes in association operations, and it may require altering governing documents to become compliant. A community association management team is able to assist with these adjustments. Here’s information about the impact of WUCIOA on communities:
Promoting Meeting Accessibility and Participation
Changes enforced by WUCIOA provide more opportunities for community members to participate in meetings, which can promote improved attendance. The act allows for virtual meetings in place of in-person gatherings; this makes it simpler for residents with young children or mobility issues to attend meetings. Holding virtual meetings also makes scheduling easier for communities that are spread out or do not have sufficient meeting space. The act requires the association to utilize a real-time communication option, such as a video call platform.
WUCIOA also changes who is able to attend meetings. All meetings, except executive ones, have been opened to residents, and homeowners are given dedicated time to speak. This allows residents to address potential issues and have more input in community matters.
The association is required to provide meeting notices and agendas to homeowners. Meeting notices should be provided at least 14 days ahead of time and include relevant meeting information, such as the date and time. Providing the agenda informs residents of what will be discussed at the meeting; this allows homeowners to have relevant information when preparing for their dedicated speaking time. Some community association companies offer templates for meeting notices and agendas, which can simplify this process.
Changing Operations for Legal Challenges
WUCIOA establishes a 90-day period for residents to legally challenge board actions, starting when the meeting minutes have been approved or distributed. This provides homeowners with a clearer timeline, and it promotes timely distribution of meeting minutes. Boards can create a minute approval process by choosing a board member to review the minutes after each meeting. With standardized templates provided by community association firms, the board is able to organize meeting notes and improve consistency. Options for sharing meeting minutes include publication on an online platform or distribution through email.
Prohibiting Heat Pump Bans
Becoming compliant with WUCIOA may require making adjustments to architectural guidelines and approval processes. This law protects homeowners’ rights to install heat pumps; boards are not allowed to have blanket bans for heat pumps or unreasonably restrict their installation or use. Boards are allowed to have guidelines around safety and installation standards but cannot charge fees for the installation.
This change may require the board to update its governing documents related to heat pumps and establish a formal approval process for residents. If residents work with a qualified contractor and follow all architectural guidelines and safety standards, then the association is required to approve it. A community association management company can help boards adjust architectural guidelines; they also assist with implementing standardized workflows for the application and review process.
Offering Additional Assessment Payment Options
WUCIOA requires that associations offer at least one free payment option. This promotes flexibility for homeowners and can make it easier to pay assessments on time, reducing the risk of penalties. This change requires the association to check their current payment methods; the board should discuss options with their payment provider and make records of payment changes. Updating all assessment-relevant communication, including payment instructions, informs residents about their options.
Free payment options include:
- Mailed checks
- Online platforms without service fees
- In-person payments
Learn More About WUCIOA
The Washington Uniform Common Interest Homeownership Act helps promote homeowners’ rights and changes community guidelines. Community association management companies offer board training meetings to help with the transition and promote compliance; this may prevent penalties and potential legal issues. To learn more about WUCIOA, contact a community management firm today.
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